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"We would have hoped these MPs, elected under the Labour banner, felt able to continue pressing Labour policies to rescue our country from the current state of brutal inequality and national division.

"Instead, their actions are bound to add to the current mood of uncertainty. Those who resigned today have made no secret of their refusal to accept Jeremy Corbyn as party leader from the moment he was first elected overwhelmingly by our members.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn (Image: PA)

"But Labour is now the largest political party in western Europe, and we will continue to push collectively for a change of government and a change of national direction."

Mrs Hughes added: "We are many, they are few."

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Corbyn released a statement saying the country is in "crisis" and needs a Labour Government.

He said: "Our opponents are the Tories, not each other, and it's disappointing that a small group of MPs have felt unable to continue to work together for the Labour policies that inspired millions at the last election and saw us increase our vote by the largest share since 1945."

Chris Leslie said the seven would have their first formal meeting "in a few days" to "assign roles and responsibilities".